Judi Franco visits the first new hotel in Asbury Park in 50 years

Look, it's not like I don't know that I go on and on about Asbury Park and how much I love it as though I'm getting paid for it! (I'm not.)

It's not like I don't know there are just as fabulous places to visit all over New Jersey (Not really, though.)

And it's not like I don't realize that you all might not be as excited about Asbury Park's rebirth as I am (You should be.)

I just can't visit the place without discovering yet another new and fabulous aspect of it every single time I'm there.

This time it was our anniversary celebration. We decided to get away for a night and stay in the brand-new Asbury Hotel. It's the first new hotel that has been built in Asbury Park in 50 years. So you know the resort town is officially back! It's a renovated Salvation Army building and many of the original touches are still there, including the exterior brick facade which is now INSIDE of the lobby.

From the seamless check-in (thanks Mike), to the wonderful staff, the soaring lobby ceilings to the original brickwork, the thin crust pizza counter, and inviting lobby complete with pinball machine and pool table, it's really something to see.

There's live music in the lobby on select nights, the coolest bar ever, an outdoor pool for the summer months and a rooftop bar that is not to be missed.

All of this makes it a night out, even if you don't stay over!

It is so great to have Asbury Park back, recapturing even more than its former glory. The Asbury Hotel proves you don't need to go to Tribeca or Union Square in NYC for the same vibe! And, at Jersey prices. Plus, screw Manhattan: We've got the ocean!

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